Physical activity in people with Down Syndrome

Being physically active contributes to the physical, emotional and social well-being of the population. People with disabilities are characterized by a lack of habitual physical activity that affects their autonomy and health. This research aims to identify the impact of a physical activity program in young people with Down Syndrome. Twenty-six young people (12 women) between 12 and 27 years old (M = 18, DE = 4.35) participated. Participants completed the Eurofit battery, considering the results, a program was developed and implemented with 20 sessions of 45 minutes each. Wilcoxon signed rank tests show significant differences between the pre-and post-test in abdominal strength (Median 1= 10.50 vs Median 2= 19.50 sit-ups per minute), p=.002; power in lower limbs, (Median 1= 77.00 vs Median 2 = 85.00 cm), p<.021, flexibility (Median 1=10.50 vs Median 2= 14.50 cm), p<.001; right upper limb speed (Median 1 = 34.73 vs Median 2 = 31.40) p=.010 and speed (Median 1= 4.36 vs Median 2= 3.62 seconds/10m), p< .001. We conclude that the application of a specific improves abilities in people with Down.